“First and foremost, it’s about public service,” said Speaker of the House Dennis Lister as he celebrated 30 years as an elected Member of Parliament, adding “that service requires us to recognize the people that put us here, and a commitment to the country.”

The veteran MP – who was first elected in February 1989 — was congratulated by other MPs on Friday as he marked thirty years in the House of Assembly.

“It’s been a journey that has been shared with many,” he told Bernews. “I am here at the wishes of those who elect me each time, and I give all praise and thanks to them for giving support to me.”

“This part that takes place in the House is really a small portion of what the service is. The service is serving their community is 24/7, and you have to make yourself available.”

He also spoke about the role the changing technology has played, noting that while audio of the proceedings is now broadcast live and online, when he first started in the House it was not broadcast so “if you wanted to listen to Parliament, you had to physically come here and sit in the Chambers.”

“Seems like the 30 years have gone quickly,” Speaker Lister said. “It has been challenging in some parts, it’s been very enjoyable in other parts, meaning the challenge is always when you find a heartaches that people are confronted with, and how can we best serve their needs.”

Speaker Lister speaks with Bernews about his 30 years in the House of Assembly: